Prioritization Suitable Hydropower Potential Sites Along the Furfuro River, Ethiopia

Energy access is a critical factor for economic development and social progress, particularly in rural areas of developing countries like Ethiopia. This study aims to identify and prioritize suitable hydropower sites along the Furfuro River using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) method. Five key criteria were considered: power, discharge, head, accessibility, and distance. To evaluate the relative significance of these factors, a pairwise comparison matrix was created. Normalization and critical weight calculation were performed to determine the weight of each criterion. The consistency of the pairwise comparison matrix was evaluated using the consistency ratio (CR), which was found to be acceptable. The site with the highest suitability index was ranked the most suitable for hydropower development. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for decision-makers in prioritizing hydropower development in the region, reducing reliance on traditional, harmful energy sources, and improving the quality of life for local communities along the Furfuro River. By considering multiple factors and employing the Analytic Hierarchy Process, this research contributes to sustainable energy planning and resource management.